Sables ready for Rugby Africa Cup

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SABLES captain Hilton Mudariki is relishing the tough Africa Cup challenge coming up after his charges put in hard yards in training ahead of their opener against Uganda on Saturday.

SABLES captain Hilton Mudariki is relishing the tough Africa Cup challenge coming up after his charges put in hard yards in training ahead of their opener against Uganda on Saturday.

The Zimbabwe men’s 15s rugby national team depart for Uganda tomorrow and will kickstart their campaign against the bogey hosts.

Mudariki is pragmatic about their chances out there, admitting that they face a tough challenge, but one they are looking forward to.

“Camp has been going very well. [We have had] a couple of intense sessions and we have had a few guys coming in and out. The sevens guys joined as well, which has added more competition and more [selection] headaches for the coaches,” he said.

“The camaraderie within the squad has been awesome. Getting to know each other both on and off the field, I think is always a key thing. Staying together as a group has helped that and with a couple more days to go, we are excited about  the challenge ahead.

“We know that it is going to be a tough one. We would have a couple more days to work at it, but overall, we just can’t wait for the show together.”

The Sables yesterday announced the travelling squad, which has a fine balance between youth and experience, with head coach Piet Benade spoilt for choice.

Sables Squad

Forwards: Victor Mupunga, Simba Mandioma, Cleopas Kundiona, David Makamba, Kudakwashe Nyakufaringwa, Blithe Mavesere, Simba Siraha, Aiden Burnett (VC), Zvikomborero Chimoto, Bryan Chiang, Bornwell Gwinji, Hilton Kamanda, Tadiwa Gwashu, Dylan Utete, Brian Nyaude, Tawanda Banda, Brian Makamure,

Backs: Hilton Mudariki (C), Ian Prior, Edward Sigauke, Kudzi Mashawi (CC), Dion Khumalo, Brandon Mudzekenyedzi, Tapiwa Mafura, Keegan Joubert, Darell Makwasha, Trevor Gurwe, Takudzwa Musingwini,

Technical Team

Piet Benade (head coach), Ricky Chirengende (assistant coach), Gert Smal (consultant), Senna Esterhuizen (defence coach), Joel Carew (forwards & scrum coach), Tich Makwanya (athlete welfare manager), Fortune Chipendu (lineout coach), Kevin Nqindi (assistant forwards coach) Takunda Chifokoyo (team manager) Amanda Zisengwe (physio)

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